CYPRUS: BoC releases €927 mn twelve-month time deposits

30 July, 2014

The Bank of Cyprus announced on Wednesday that it releases the twelve-month time deposits of about €927 mn, that were blocked as per the decrees relating to the recapitalisation of the Bank in July 2013 and mature on 31 July 2014.

In a press release the Bank said that “as part of its ongoing gradual recovery and in order to normalize the maturity profile of its deposit base in Cyprus”, it has proceeded with the release of the twelve-month time deposits as follows:

- one third of twelve-month time deposits is immediately released and becomes available in clients` current accounts;

- one third of twelve-month time deposits is converted into a three-month time deposit maturing and automatically released at 30 October 2014;

- one third of twelve-month time deposits is converted into a six-month time deposit maturing and automatically released at 30 January 2015.

“The Bank’s improving liquidity position and its specific and deliberate actions to enhance its liquidity through deleveraging are the decisive reasons for the release of the deposits” the press release noted.

It added that “the decision to release takes also into account the Bank’s recent announcement regarding the private placement of €1 bn ordinary shares, which is a significant demonstration of international investors’ confidence towards the Bank”.

Furthermore, “the release of the deposits reflects the Bank’s prudent liquidity management and takes into account the improvement in the economic environment” it said.

According to the press release “the released funds will be subject to the restrictive measures relating to overseas transfers currently applicable in the Cypriot banking system”.

It also said that the decision was made by the Board of Directors of the Bank, following consultations with the Finance Ministry and the Central Bank of Cyprus.

“Through its decision, the Bank’s management recognizes the improving trust and confidence towards the Bank by its customers and, in tandem, meets the expectations of the general public in Cyprus for supporting the recovery of the economy as a whole” the press release said.